Doorbell communication and electrical systems

ABSTRACT

A doorbell system can be used to block a first electricity that is less than a first threshold from entering an electronic chime. By blocking the first electricity from entering the electronic chime, the electronic chime is not allowed to emit a notification sound. The doorbell system can also be used to allow a second electricity that is greater than the first threshold to enter the electronic chime. By allowing the second electricity to enter the electronic chime, this can allow the electronic chime to emit a notification sound in response to a visitor being present.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

The entire contents of the following application are incorporated byreference herein: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/888,534; filed2020 May 29; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS.

The entire contents of the following application are incorporated byreference herein: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 16/557,753; filed2019 Aug. 30; and entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION AND ELECTRICALSYSTEMS.

The entire contents of the following application are incorporated byreference herein: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/990,601; filed May26, 2018; entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS; andissued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,440,166 on Oct. 8, 2019.

The entire contents of the following application are incorporated byreference herein: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/673,896; filedAug. 10, 2017; entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS;and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 10,440,165 on Oct. 8, 2019.

The entire contents of the following application are incorporated byreference herein: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/671,677; filedMar. 27, 2015; entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS;and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,172,920 on Oct. 27, 2015.

The entire contents of the following application are incorporated byreference herein: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/588,881; filedJan. 2, 2015; entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS;and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 9,736,284 on Aug. 15, 2017.

The entire contents of the following application are incorporated byreference herein: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/474,210; filedSep. 1, 2014; entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS;and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,953,040 on Feb. 10, 2015.

The entire contents of the following application are incorporated byreference herein: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/474,209; filedSep. 1, 2014; entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS;and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,937,659 on Jan. 20, 2015.

The entire contents of the following application are incorporated byreference herein: U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/099,888; filedDec. 6, 2013; entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION AND ELECTRICAL SYSTEMS;and issued as U.S. Pat. No. 8,823,795 on Sep. 2, 2014.

The entire contents of the following application are incorporated byreference herein: U.S. Patent Application No. 61/872,439; filed Aug. 30,2013; entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS.

The entire contents of the following application are incorporated byreference herein: U.S. Patent Application No. 61/859,070; filed Jul. 26,2013; entitled DOORBELL COMMUNICATION SYSTEMS AND METHODS.

BACKGROUND Field

Various embodiments disclosed herein relate to doorbell systems. Certainembodiments relate to doorbell electrical systems.

Description of Related Art

Buildings often have doorbells located at points of entry so visitorscan alert occupants of the building of the visitor's arrival. Thedoorbells typically have chimes inside the building that emit anotification sound in response to a visitor pressing a doorbell button.Oftentimes, the chimes are available as analog chimes and digitalchimes.

Analog chimes typically include two flat metal bar resonators, which arestruck by plungers operated by two solenoids. Analog chimes typicallyrequire electricity for a short duration of time to produce the notable“ding-dong” sound, which is the result of the plungers striking themetal bars.

Digital chimes often employ a circuit board containing music data and aspeaker. As such, digital chimes can be capable of playing a widervariety of sounds over the typical “ding-dong” sound. To achieve this,the digital chimes may require electricity over a longer period of timethan their analog predecessors.

However, the notification sound emitted by analog and digital chimes cantypically only be heard within a short distance from the chime itself.For example, a homeowner located remotely from her home likely would notbe able to hear the notification sound, and thus, would not be awarethat a visitor is ringing her doorbell. Thus, there is a need fordevices and methods that are compatible with analog and digital chimesto alert remotely located individuals that a visitor seeks the attentionof the building occupant.

SUMMARY

The disclosure includes embodiments that include a doorbell system thatcomprise an electronic doorbell comprising a camera and a button,wherein the camera is configurable to visually detect a visitor and thebutton is configurable to enable the visitor to sound an electronicchime, an electronic switch assembly electrically coupled to theelectronic doorbell and a transformer, and an electronic chimeelectrically coupled to the electronic switch assembly, wherein theelectronic chime comprises a speaker configurable to emit a notificationsound in response to the visitor pressing the button of the electronicdoorbell. The electronic switch assembly may define a first state and asecond state. The first state may occur in response to a firstelectricity that is less than a first threshold, and the second statemay occur in response to a second electricity that is greater than thefirst threshold. In the first state the electronic switch assembly mayblock the first electricity from passing through the electronic chime sothat the electronic chime does not emit a notification sound. In thesecond state the electronic switch assembly may allow the secondelectricity to pass through the electronic chime so that the electronicchime emits the notification sound.

In several embodiments, the electronic chime may comprise a digitalchime having a first printed circuit board configured to enable theelectronic chime to emit the notification sound from the speaker basedon digital music data. The electronic doorbell may also comprise asecond printed circuit board configured to block the second electricityfrom entering the second printed circuit board of the electronicdoorbell in response to the visitor pressing the button.

In the first state, the electronic switch assembly may allow the firstelectricity to pass through the electronic switch assembly. In severalembodiments, the electronic switch assembly may be mechanically coupledto the electronic chime. Some embodiments of the doorbell system maycomprise a plastic housing. The electronic chime and the electronicswitch assembly may be located inside the plastic housing. Theelectronic doorbell may be located outside of the plastic housing and ina remote location relative to the plastic housing.

Several embodiments of the doorbell system may further include a remotecomputing device configured to receive a predetermined amount of timefrom a user. The predetermined amount of time may define an amount oftime that the second electricity is maintained above the firstthreshold.

In some embodiments, the electronic switch assembly may comprise a firstelectronic switch and a second electronic switch that is electricallycoupled to the first electronic switch. In response to the firstelectricity: 1) the first electronic switch may allow the firstelectricity to flow through the electronic switch assembly and may notallow the first electricity to flow to the electronic chime, and 2) thesecond electronic switch may not allow the first electricity to flow tothe electronic chime. In response to the second electricity, the firstand second electronic switches may allow the second electricity to flowthrough the electronic chime. In several embodiments, the firstelectronic switch may comprise a double pole, single throw switch, andthe second electronic switch may comprise a single pole, single throwswitch.

In some embodiments, when the first electronic switch is in a firstposition, the first electronic switch may electrically connect thetransformer and the electronic doorbell, and when the first electronicswitch is in a second position, the first electronic switch mayelectrically connect the transformer and the electronic chime. As well,when the second electronic switch is in an open position, the secondelectronic switch may electrically disconnect the electronic doorbelland the electronic chime, and when the second electronic switch is in aclosed position, the second electronic switch may electrically connectthe electronic doorbell and the electronic chime. In some embodiments,when the first electronic switch is in the first position, the secondelectronic switch is in the open position, and when the first electronicswitch is in the second position, the second electronic switch is in theclosed position.

In several embodiments, when the first electronic switch is in a firstposition, the first electronic switch may electrically connect thetransformer and the electronic doorbell, and when the first electronicswitch is in a second position, the first electronic switch electricallyconnects the electronic chime and the electronic doorbell. As well, whenthe second electronic switch is in an open position, the secondelectronic switch electrically disconnects the transformer and theelectronic chime, and when the second electronic switch is in a closedposition, the second electronic switch electrically connects thetransformer and the electronic chime. In some embodiments, when thefirst electronic switch is in the first position, the second electronicswitch is in the open position. Furthermore, when the first electronicswitch is in the second position, the second electronic switch may be inthe closed position.

In some embodiments, the electronic switch assembly comprises a firstelectronic switch, a second electronic switch electrically connected tothe first electronic switch, and a third electronic switch electricallyconnected to the first and second electronic switches, wherein inresponse to the first electricity: 1) the first electronic switch allowsthe first electricity to flow through the electronic switch assembly anddoes not allow the first electricity to flow to the electronic chime,and 2) the second and third electronic switches do not allow the firstelectricity to flow to the electronic chime. As well, in response to thesecond electricity: 1) the first electronic switch does not allow thesecond electricity to flow through the electronic switch assembly, and2) the second and third electronic switches allow the second electricityto flow to the electronic chime. In several embodiments, the firstelectronic switch comprises a first single pole, single throw switch,the second electronic switch comprises a second single pole, singlethrow switch, and the third electronic switch comprises a third singlepole, single throw switch.

In some embodiments, when the first electronic switch is in a closedposition, the first electronic switch electrically connects thetransformer and the electronic doorbell, and when the first electronicswitch is in an open position, the first electronic switch electricallydisconnects the transformer and the electronic doorbell. When the secondelectronic switch is in a closed position, the second electronic switchelectrically connects the transformer and the electronic chime, and whenthe second electronic switch is in an open position, the secondelectronic switch electrically disconnects the transformer and theelectronic chime. Accordingly, when the third electronic switch is in aclosed position, the third electronic switch electrically connects theelectronic doorbell and the electronic chime, and when the thirdelectronic switch is in an open position, the third electronic switchelectrically disconnects the electronic doorbell and the electronicchime.

Furthermore, in several embodiments of the doorbell system, when thefirst electronic switch is in the closed position, the second and thirdelectronic switches are each in the open position. As well, when thefirst electronic switch is in the open position, the second and thirdelectronic switches are each in the closed position.

Some embodiments include a doorbell system that includes an electronicdoorbell comprising a camera and a button, wherein the camera isconfigurable to visually detect a visitor and the button is configurableto enable the visitor to sound an electronic chime, a printed circuitboard electrically coupled to the electronic doorbell and a transformer,and an electronic chime electrically coupled to the printed circuitboard and mechanically coupled to the printed circuit board. Theelectronic chime may comprise a speaker configurable to emit anotification sound in response to the visitor pressing the button of theelectronic doorbell. The printed circuit board may be configured toblock a first electricity that is less than a first threshold fromentering the electronic chime. The first electricity does not cause theelectronic chime to emit the notification sound. As well, the printedcircuit board may be configured to allow the first electricity to passthrough the printed circuit board.

In some embodiments, the printed circuit board is configured to allow asecond electricity that is greater than the first threshold to enter theelectronic chime. The second electricity may cause the electronic chimeto emit the notification sound.

In several embodiments the printed circuit board comprises a baseportion that defines a length that extends along a first direction and awidth that extends along a second direction that is opposite the firstdirection. In some embodiments the length may be greater than the width.The printed circuit board may further comprise three tabs that extendfrom the length along the second direction. In some embodiments, each ofthe three tabs includes an aperture that extends through each of thethree tabs along a third direction that is opposite the first directionand the second direction. In several embodiments, each of the aperturesis configured to receive a threaded fastener, and wherein the printedcircuit board is mechanically coupled to the electronic chime via threethreaded fasteners.

In some embodiments, the printed circuit board is a first printedcircuit board. The electronic doorbell may comprise a second printedcircuit board configured to block the second electricity from enteringthe second printed circuit board of the electronic doorbell in responseto the visitor pressing the button.

Furthermore, some embodiments include a method for using a doorbellsystem, wherein the doorbell system comprises an electronic doorbell, anelectronic chime, and a remote computing device. The method may includeobtaining the electronic doorbell that comprises a camera and a button,wherein the button is configurable to enable a visitor to sound anelectronic chime, wherein the electronic chime comprises a speakerconfigurable to emit a notification sound in response to the visitorpressing the button of the electronic doorbell, electrically coupling anelectronic switch assembly to the electronic chime; electricallycoupling the electronic doorbell to the electronic switch assembly,configuring the electronic switch assembly so that a first electricitythat is less than a first threshold passes through the electronic switchassembly without entering the electronic chime, wherein the firstelectricity does not cause the electronic chime to emit the notificationsound, wherein the electronic switch assembly blocks the firstelectricity from passing through the electronic chime in response to thefirst electricity being less than the first threshold. Severalembodiments include configuring the electronic switch assembly so thatthe electronic switch assembly causes a second electricity that isgreater than the first threshold to pass through the electronic chime tocause the electronic chime to emit the notification sound, wherein theelectronic switch assembly causes the second electricity to pass throughthe electronic chime in response to the second electricity being greaterthan the first threshold.

In several embodiments, the method may further include mechanicallycoupling the electronic switch assembly to the electronic chime. Aswell, some embodiments may include configuring an electrical circuit sothat a third electricity passes from a transformer to the electronicdoorbell to the electronic switch assembly and then back to thetransformer without entering the electronic chime in response to thethird electricity being less than first threshold. Some embodiments mayalso include configuring the electrical circuit so that a fourthelectricity passes from the transformer to the electronic doorbell andto the electronic switch assembly. The fourth electricity may bediverted from the electronic switch assembly into the electronic chimeand then back into the electronic switch assembly in response to thefourth electricity being greater than the first threshold. Theelectronic doorbell and the electronic switch assembly may be in seriesin the electrical circuit.

In many embodiments, the electronic chime comprises a digital chimehaving a first printed circuit board, and the method may further includeconfiguring the first printed circuit board to enable the electronicchime to emit the notification sound from the speaker based on digitalmusic data. In several embodiments, the electronic doorbell comprises asecond printed circuit board, and the method may further include routingat least a portion of the first electricity through the second printedcircuit board of the electronic doorbell. The method may further includeblocking the second electricity from entering the second printed circuitboard of the electronic doorbell in response to the visitor pressing thebutton. As well, the method may include causing the second electricityto be greater than the first threshold in response to the visitorpressing the button of the electronic doorbell.

In several embodiments the doorbell system comprises a plastic housing.The method may further include placing the electronic chime and theelectronic switch assembly inside the plastic housing. As well, themethod may include placing the electronic doorbell outside of theplastic housing and in a remote location relative to the plastichousing.

Several embodiments may further include using the electronic switchassembly to block transformer electrical power from entering theelectronic chime while the first electricity is less than the firstthreshold. As well, the method may include using the electronic switchassembly to divert the transformer electrical power from the electronicswitch assembly into the electronic chime while the second electricityis greater than the first threshold.

In some embodiments, the first threshold is a first electrical powerthreshold. In several embodiments the first threshold is a firstelectrical voltage threshold. In some embodiments the first threshold isa first electrical current threshold.

In several embodiments, the method may further include setting apredetermined amount of time via the remote computing device prior tothe second electricity exceeding the first threshold. The method mayinclude sending the predetermined amount of time wirelessly from theremote computing device to the electronic doorbell. Once the secondelectricity is greater than the first threshold, the method may furtherinclude maintaining the second electricity above the first threshold forthe predetermined amount of time.

Some embodiments include another method for using a doorbell system,wherein the doorbell system comprises an electronic doorbell, anelectronic chime, and a remote computing device. The method may includeobtaining the electronic doorbell that comprises a camera and a button,wherein the button is configurable to enable a visitor to sound anelectronic chime, wherein the electronic chime comprises a speakerconfigurable to emit a notification sound in response to the visitorpressing the button of the electronic doorbell. The method may includemechanically coupling a printed circuit board to the electronic chimeand electrically coupling the printed circuit board to the electronicchime. As well, the method may include electrically coupling theelectronic doorbell to the printed circuit board and configuring theprinted circuit board so that the printed circuit board allows a firstelectricity to pass through the printed circuit board in response to thefirst electricity being less than the threshold. The method may alsoinclude configuring the printed circuit board so that the printedcircuit board blocks the first electricity from entering the electronicchime in response to the first electricity being less than the firstthreshold, wherein the first electricity does not cause the electronicchime to emit the notification sound.

In several embodiments, the printed circuit board may be a first printedcircuit board, and the electronic doorbell may comprise a second printedcircuit board. The method may further include routing at least a portionof the first electricity through the second printed circuit board of theelectronic doorbell. The method may also include configuring the secondprinted circuit board to block the second electricity from entering thesecond printed circuit board of the electronic doorbell in response tothe visitor pressing the button.

In some embodiments, the method may further include configuring theprinted circuit board so that the printed circuit board causes a secondelectricity that is greater than the first threshold to enter theelectronic chime to cause the electronic chime to emit the notificationsound. The printed circuit board may cause the second electricity topass through the electronic chime in response to the second electricitybeing greater than the first threshold.

Several embodiments may further include using the remote computingdevice to set a predetermined amount of time for the second electricityto stay above the first threshold. As well, the methods may includewirelessly sending the predetermined amount from the remote computingdevice to the electronic doorbell. In response to the second electricitybeing greater than the first threshold, the method may include using theelectronic doorbell to maintain the second electricity above the firstthreshold for the predetermined amount of time.

In some embodiments, the doorbell system may include a plastic housing,and the electronic chime and the electronic switch assembly may belocated inside the plastic housing and the electronic doorbell may belocated outside of the plastic housing and in a remote location relativeto the plastic housing.

Some embodiments include using a doorbell system. The doorbell systemmay comprise an electronic doorbell, an electronic chime, and a remotecomputing device. The method may include obtaining the electronicdoorbell that comprises a camera and a button. The button may beconfigurable to enable a visitor to sound an electronic chime, whereinthe electronic chime comprises a speaker configurable to emit anotification sound in response to the visitor pressing the button of theelectronic doorbell. The method may include mechanically coupling aprinted circuit board to the electronic chime and electrically couplingthe printed circuit board to the electronic chime. As well, the methodmay include electrically coupling the electronic doorbell to the printedcircuit board. The method may also include configuring the electronicswitch assembly so that the electronic switch assembly causes a secondelectricity that is greater than the first threshold to pass through theelectronic chime to cause the electronic chime to emit the notificationsound. The electronic switch assembly may cause the second electricityto pass through the electronic chime in response to the secondelectricity being greater than the first threshold.

In several embodiments, the printed circuit board is a first printedcircuit board, and the electronic doorbell comprises a second printedcircuit board. The method may further include routing at least a portionof the first electricity through the second printed circuit board of theelectronic doorbell. The method may also include configuring the secondprinted circuit board to block the second electricity from entering thesecond printed circuit board of the electronic doorbell in response tothe visitor pressing the button.

Many embodiments may further include maintaining the second electricityabove the first threshold for a predetermined amount of time. In severalembodiments, the method may include setting the predetermined amount oftime via the remote computing device prior to the second electricityexceeding the first threshold, and sending the predetermined amount oftime wirelessly from the remote computing device to the electronicdoorbell.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

These and other features, aspects, and advantages are described belowwith reference to the drawings, which are intended to illustrate, butnot to limit, the invention. In the drawings, like reference charactersdenote corresponding features consistently throughout similarembodiments.

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a communication system, according tosome embodiments.

FIG. 2 illustrates a computing device running software, according tosome embodiments.

FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which a security system is connectedto a building, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 4 illustrates a schematic view of a doorbell system, according tosome embodiments.

FIG. 5 illustrates a schematic view of the doorbell system from FIG. 4with a switch assembly in a first state, according to some embodiments.

FIG. 6 illustrates a schematic view of the doorbell system from FIG. 4with the switch assembly in a second state, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 7 illustrates a schematic view of a doorbell system, according tosome embodiments.

FIG. 8 illustrates a schematic view of the switch assembly from FIG. 7with the switch assembly in a first state, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 9 illustrates a schematic view of the switch assembly from FIG. 7with the switch assembly in a second state, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 10 illustrates a schematic view of a doorbell system, according tosome embodiments.

FIG. 11 illustrates a schematic view of the switch assembly from FIG. 10with the switch assembly in a first state, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 12 illustrates a schematic view of the switch assembly from FIG. 10with the switch assembly in a second state, according to someembodiments.

FIG. 13 illustrates an electronic switch assembly, according to someembodiments.

FIGS. 14-16 illustrate flow-charts of various methods of using adoorbell system, according to some embodiments.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Although certain embodiments and examples are disclosed below, inventivesubject matter extends beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments toother alternative embodiments and/or uses, and to modifications andequivalents thereof. Thus, the scope of the claims appended hereto isnot limited by any of the particular embodiments described below. Forexample, in any method or process disclosed herein, the acts oroperations of the method or process may be performed in any suitablesequence and are not necessarily limited to any particular disclosedsequence. Various operations may be described as multiple discreteoperations in turn, in a manner that may be helpful in understandingcertain embodiments; however, the order of description should not beconstrued to imply that these operations are order dependent.Additionally, the structures, systems, and/or devices described hereinmay be embodied as integrated components or as separate components.

For purposes of comparing various embodiments, certain aspects andadvantages of these embodiments are described. Not necessarily all suchaspects or advantages are achieved by any particular embodiment. Thus,for example, various embodiments may be carried out in a manner thatachieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taughtherein without necessarily achieving other aspects or advantages as mayalso be taught or suggested herein. Buildings often have doorbellbuttons located at points of entry. The doorbell buttons may beelectrically connected to a chime located inside the building.Accordingly, when a visitor presses the doorbell button, this may causea notification sound to be emitted from the chime to thereby alert thebuilding occupants of the visitor's arrival. It should be appreciatedthat the chime may be available as an analog chime or digital chime.

Digital chimes may include a circuit board containing music data and aspeaker configured to play a song. Digital chimes may requireelectricity over a longer period of time than analog chimes.Accordingly, digital chimes may require additional electrical componentsthat may not be available in an analog chime system. As such, variousembodiments described herein provide methods of use and systems ofelectronic doorbells and digital doorbell chimes.

Doorbell System Embodiments

Communication systems can provide a secure and convenient way for aremotely located individual to communicate with a person who isapproaching a sensor, such as a proximity sensor or motion sensor, orwith a person who rings a doorbell, which can be located in a doorway,near an entrance, or within 15 feet of a door. Some communicationsystems allow an individual to hear, see, and talk with visitors whoapproach at least a portion of the communication system and/or press abutton, such as a doorbell's button. For example, communication systemscan use a computing device to enable a remotely located person to see,hear, and/or talk with visitors. Computing devices can includecomputers, laptops, tablets, mobile devices, smartphones, cellularphones, and wireless devices (e.g., cars with wireless communication).Example computing devices include the iPhone, iPad, iMac, MacBook Air,and MacBook Pro made by Apple Inc. Communication between a remotelylocated person and a visitor can occur via the Internet, cellularnetworks, telecommunication networks, and wireless networks.

FIG. 1 illustrates a front view of a communication system embodiment.The communication system 200 can include a security system 202 (e.g., adoorbell) and a computing device 204. Although the illustrated securitysystem 202 includes many components in one housing, several securitysystem embodiments include components in separate housings. The securitysystem 202 can include a camera assembly 208 and a doorbell button 212.The camera assembly 208 can be a video camera, which in some embodimentsis a webcam. The security system 202 can include a diagnostic light 216and a power indicator light 220. In some embodiments, the diagnosticlight 216 is a first color (e.g., blue) if the security system 202and/or the communication system 200 is connected to a wireless Internetnetwork and is a second color (e.g., red) if the security system 202and/or the communication system 200 is not connected to a wirelessInternet network. In some embodiments, the power indicator 220 is afirst color if the security system 202 is connected to a power source.The power source can be power supplied by the building to which thesecurity system 202 is attached. In some embodiments, the powerindicator 220 is a second color or does not emit light if the securitysystem 202 is not connected to the power source.

The security system 202 (e.g., a doorbell) can include an outer housing224, which can be water resistant and/or waterproof. The outer housingcan be made from metal or plastic, such as molded plastic with ahardness of 60 Shore D. In some embodiments, the outer housing 224 ismade from brushed nickel or aluminum.

Rubber seals can be used to make the outer housing 224 water resistantor waterproof. The security system 202 can be electrically coupled to apower source, such as wires electrically connected to a building'selectrical power system. In some embodiments, the security system 202includes a battery for backup and/or primary power.

Wireless communication 230 can enable the security system 202 (e.g., adoorbell) to communicate with the computing device 204. Some embodimentsenable communication via cellular and/or WiFi networks. Some embodimentsenable communication via the Internet. Several embodiments enable wiredcommunication between the security system 202 and the computing device204. The wireless communication 230 can include the followingcommunication means: radio, WiFi (e.g., wireless local area network),cellular, Internet, Bluetooth, telecommunication, electromagnetic,infrared, light, sonic, and microwave. Other communication means areused by some embodiments. In some embodiments, such as embodiments thatinclude telecommunication or cellular communication means, the securitysystem 202 can initiate voice calls or send text messages to a computingdevice 204 (e.g., a smartphone, a desktop computer, a tablet computer, alaptop computer).

Some embodiments include computer software (e.g., application software),which can be a mobile application designed to run on smartphones, tabletcomputers, and other mobile devices. Software of this nature issometimes referred to as “app” software. Some embodiments includesoftware designed to run on desktop computers and laptop computers.

The computing device 204 can run software with a graphical userinterface. The user interface can include icons or buttons. In someembodiments, the software is configured for use with a touch-screencomputing device such as a smartphone or tablet.

FIG. 2 illustrates a computing device 204 running software. The softwareincludes a user interface 240 displayed on a display screen 242. Theuser interface 240 can include a security system indicator 244, whichcan indicate the location of the security system that the user interfaceis displaying. For example, a person can use one computing device 204 tocontrol and/or interact with multiple security systems, such as onesecurity system located at a front door and another security systemlocated at a back door. Selecting the security system indicator 244 canallow the user to choose another security system (e.g., the back doorsecurity system rather than the front door security system).

The user interface 240 can include a connectivity indicator 248. In someembodiments, the connectivity indicator can indicate whether thecomputing device is in communication with a security system, theInternet, and/or a cellular network. The connectivity indicator 248 canalert the user if the computing device 204 has lost its connection withthe security system 202; the security system 202 has been damaged; thesecurity system 202 has been stolen; the security system 202 has beenremoved from its mounting location; the security system 202 lostelectrical power; and/or if the computing device 204 cannot communicatewith the security system 202. In some embodiments, the connectivityindicator 248 alerts the user of the computing device 204 by flashing,emitting a sound, displaying a message, and/or displaying a symbol.

In some embodiments, if the security system 202 loses power, losesconnectivity to the computing device 204, loses connectivity to theInternet, and/or loses connectivity to a remote server, a remote server206 sends an alert (e.g., phone call, text message, image on the userinterface 240) regarding the power and/or connectivity issue. In severalembodiments, the remote server 206 can manage communication between thesecurity system 202 and the computing device. In some embodiments,information from the security system 202 is stored by the remote server206. In several embodiments, information from the security system 202 isstored by the remote server 206 until the information can be sent to thecomputing device 204, uploaded to the computing device 204, and/ordisplayed to the remotely located person via the computing device 204.The remote server 206 can be a computing device that stores informationfrom the security system 202 and/or from the computing device 204. Insome embodiments, the remote server 206 is located in a data center.

In some embodiments, the computing device 204 and/or the remote server206 attempts to communicate with the security system 202. If thecomputing device 204 and/or the remote server 206 is unable tocommunicate with the security system 202, the computing device 204and/or the remote server 206 alerts the remotely located person via thesoftware, phone, text, a displayed message, and/or a website. In someembodiments, the computing device 204 and/or the remote server 206attempts to communicate with the security system 202 periodically; atleast every five hours and/or less than every 10 minutes; at least every24 hours and/or less than every 60 minutes; or at least every hourand/or less than every second.

In some embodiments, the server 206 can initiate communication to thecomputer device 204 and/or to the security system 202. In severalembodiments, the server 206 can initiate, control, and/or blockcommunication between the computing device 204 and the security system202.

In several embodiments, a user can log into an “app,” website, and/orsoftware on a computing device (e.g., mobile computing device,smartphone, tablet, desktop computer) to adjust the security systemsettings discussed herein.

In some embodiments, a computing device can enable a user to watch livevideo and/or hear live audio from a security system due to the user'srequest rather than due to actions of a visitor. Some embodimentsinclude a computing device initiating a live video feed (or a video feedthat is less than five minutes old).

In some embodiments, the user interface 240 displays an image 252 suchas a still image or a video of an area near and/or in front of thesecurity system 202. The image 252 can be taken by the camera assembly208 and stored by the security system 202, server 206, and/or computingdevice 204. The user interface 240 can include a recording button 256 toenable a user to record images, videos, and/or sound from the cameraassembly 208, microphone of the security system 202, and/or microphoneof the computing device 204.

In several embodiments, the user interface 240 includes a picture button260 to allow the user to take still pictures and/or videos of the areanear and/or in front of the security system 202. The user interface 240can also include a sound adjustment button 264 and a mute button 268.The user interface 240 can include camera manipulation buttons such aszoom, pan, and light adjustment buttons. In some embodiments, the cameraassembly 208 automatically adjusts between Day Mode and Night Mode. Someembodiments include an infrared camera and/or infrared lights toilluminate an area near the security system 202 to enable the cameraassembly 208 to provide sufficient visibility (even at night).

In some embodiments, buttons include diverse means of selecting variousoptions, features, and functions. Buttons can be selected by mouseclicks, keyboard commands, and touching a touch screen. Many embodimentsinclude buttons that can be selected without touch screens.

In some embodiments, the user interface 240 includes a quality selectionbutton, which can allow a user to select the quality and/or amount ofthe data transmitted from the security system 202 to the computingdevice 204 and/or from the computing device 204 to the security system202.

In some embodiments, video can be sent to and/or received from thecomputing device 204 using video chat protocols such as FaceTime (byApple Inc.) or Skype (by Microsoft Corporation). In some embodiments,these videos are played by videoconferencing apps on the computingdevice 204 instead of being played by the user interface 240.

The user interface 240 can include a termination button 276 to endcommunication between the security system 202 and the computing device204. In some embodiments, the termination button 276 ends the ability ofthe person located near the security system 202 (i.e., the visitor) tohear and/or see the user of the computing device 204, but does not endthe ability of the user of the computing device 204 to hear and/or seethe person located near the security system 202.

In some embodiments, a button 276 is both an answer button (to accept acommunication request from a visitor) and is a termination button (toend communication between the security system 202 and the computingdevice 204). The button 276 can include the word “Answer” when thesystem is attempting to establish two-way communication between thevisitor and the user. Selecting the button 276 when the system isattempting to establish two-way communication between the visitor andthe user can start two-way communication. The button 276 can include thewords “End Call” during two-way communication between the visitor andthe user. Selecting the button 276 during two-way communication betweenthe visitor and the user can terminate two-way communication. In someembodiments, terminating two-way communication still enables the user tosee and hear the visitor. In some embodiments, terminating two-waycommunication causes the computing device 204 to stop showing video fromthe security system and to stop emitting sounds recorded by the securitysystem.

In some embodiments, the user interface 240 opens as soon as thesecurity system detects a visitor (e.g., senses indications of avisitor). Once the user interface 240 opens, the user can see and/orhear the visitor even before “answering” or otherwise accepting two-waycommunication, in several embodiments.

Some method embodiments include detecting a visitor with a securitysystem. The methods can include causing the user interface to display ona remote computing device 204 due to the detection of the visitor (e.g.,with or without user interaction). The methods can include displayingvideo from the security system and/or audio from the security systembefore the user accepts two-way communication with the visitor. Themethods can include displaying video from the security system and/oraudio from the security system before the user accepts the visitor'scommunication request. The methods can include the computing devicesimultaneously asking the user if the user wants to accept (e.g.,answer) the communication request and displaying audio and/or video ofthe visitor. For example, in some embodiments, the user can see and hearthe visitor via the security system before opening a means of two-waycommunication with the visitor.

In some embodiments, the software includes means to start the video feedon demand. For example, a user of the computing device might wonder whatis happening near the security system 202. The user can open thesoftware application on the computing device 204 and instruct theapplication to show live video and/or audio from the security device 202even if no event near the security system 202 has triggered thecommunication.

In several embodiments, the security device 202 can be configured torecord when the security device 202 detects movement and/or the presenceof a person. The user of the computing device 204 can later review allvideo and/or audio records when the security device 202 detectedmovement and/or the presence of a person.

Referring now to FIG. 1, in some embodiments, the server 206 controlscommunication between the computing device 204 and the security system202, which can be a doorbell with a camera, a microphone, and a speaker.In several embodiments, the server 206 does not control communicationbetween the computing device 204 and the security system 202.

In some embodiments, data captured by the security system and/or thecomputing device 204 (such as videos, pictures, and audio) is stored byanother remote device such as the server 206. Cloud storage, enterprisestorage, and/or networked enterprise storage can be used to store video,pictures, and/or audio from the communication system 200 or from anypart of the communication system 200. The user can download and/orstream stored data and/or storage video, pictures, and/or audio. Forexample, a user can record visitors for a year and then later can reviewconversations with visitors from the last year. In some embodiments,remote storage, the server 206, the computing device 204, and/or thesecurity system 202 can store information and statistics regardingvisitors and usage.

FIG. 3 illustrates an embodiment in which a security system 202 isconnected to a building 300, which can include an entryway 310 that hasa door 254. A door lock 250 can be configured to lock and unlock thedoor 254. Electrical wires 304 can electrically couple the securitysystem 202 to the electrical system of the building 300 so that thesecurity system 202 can receive electrical power from the building 300.

A wireless network 308 can allow devices to wirelessly access theInternet. The security system 202 can access the Internet via thewireless network 308. The wireless network 308 can transmit data fromthe security system 202 to the Internet, which can transmit the data toremotely located computing devices 204. The Internet and wirelessnetworks can transmit data from remotely located computing devices 204to the security system 202. In some embodiments, a security system 202connects to a home's WiFi.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, one computing device 204 (e.g., a laptop, asmartphone, a mobile computing device, a television) can communicatewith multiple security systems 202. In some embodiments, multiplecomputing devices 204 can communicate with one security system 202. Insome embodiments, the security system 202 can communicate (e.g.,wirelessly 230) with a television 306, which can be a smart television.Users can view the television 306 to see a visitor and/or talk with thevisitor.

FIGS. 4-12 illustrate several embodiments of doorbell systems thatinclude electronic switch assemblies for blocking and/or allowingelectricity to enter an electronic chime 412 (e.g. a digital chime). Inthe example shown in FIG. 4, the doorbell system 400 includes a securitysystem 202 (e.g. electronic doorbell) that comprises a camera and abutton. The camera may be configurable to visually detect a visitor. Aswell, the button may be configurable to enable the visitor to sound anelectronic chime 412. In this manner, the electronic chime 412 maycomprise a speaker configurable to emit a notification sound 430 inresponse to the visitor pressing the button of the security system 202The doorbell system 400 may also include an electronic switch assembly410 electrically coupled to the security system 202 and a transformer424. As well, the electronic chime 412 may be electrically coupled tothe electronic switch assembly 410. In many embodiments, the electronicchime 412 may also be mechanically coupled to the electronic switchassembly 410.

It should be appreciated that the electronic switch assembly 410 alsomay be referred to as a printed circuit board. The printed circuit boardmay be configured to enable the electronic chime 412 to emit thenotification sound 430 from the speaker based on digital music data.

With reference to FIGS. 5-6, 8-9 and 11-12 the electronic switchassembly 410 may define a first state and a second state. The firststate may occur in response to a first electricity 450 that is less thana first threshold. In the first state the electronic switch assembly 410may block the first electricity 450 from passing through the electronicchime 412 so the electronic chime 412 does not emit the notificationsound 430. Stated differently, the printed circuit board may beconfigured to block the first electricity 450 that is less than thefirst threshold from entering the electronic chime 412. In this regard,the electronic switch assembly 410 may allow the first electricity 450to pass through the electronic switch assembly 410 from the securitysystem 202 through the electronic switch assembly 410 to the transformer424, without entering the electronic chime 412. It should be appreciatedthat the first threshold may be the amount of electricity required toactivate the electronic chime 412 to emit the notification sound 430.

Furthermore, the second state may occur in response to a secondelectricity 452 that is greater than the first threshold. In the secondstate the electronic switch assembly 410 may allow the secondelectricity 452 to pass through the electronic chime 412 so that theelectronic chime 412 emits the notification sound 430. In other words,the electronic switch assembly 410, or printed circuit board, may beconfigured to allow the second electricity 452 that is greater than thefirst threshold to enter the electronic chime 412. The secondelectricity 452 may cause the electronic chime 412 to emit thenotification sound 430.

Referring now to FIG. 5, the switch assembly 410 can be placed inside ofa housing 415, which can also contain the electronic chime 412. Theswitch assembly 410 and the electronic chime 412 can be mechanicallycoupled to the housing 415. The housing 415 can be a plastic housingwith a hollow internal portion that contains the electronic chime 412and the switch assembly 410. At least one screw can mechanically couplethe switch assembly inside of the housing 415.

The electronic doorbell (e.g., the security system 202) can be locatedoutside of the housing 415. In some embodiments, the electronic doorbellis placed outside of a building 300 (shown in FIG. 3) while the housing415 is placed inside of the building 300. The electronic doorbell andthe housing 415 can be coupled to walls of the building 300. Theelectronic doorbell can be in a remote location relative to the housing415 (e.g., the doorbell is located outside while the plastic housing 415is located inside of the building). The doorbell, the electronic chime412, and the switch assembly 410 can all be configured to beelectrically coupled to the same building power supply 420 even when thedoorbell is located in the remote location relative to the housing 415.

Some embodiments may implement switches to execute routing the firstelectricity 450 and second electricity 452. For example, as illustratedin FIGS. 7-9, the electronic switch assembly 410 may comprise a firstelectronic switch 414 a and a second electronic switch 416 a that iselectrically coupled to the first electronic switch 414 a. The first andsecond switches 414 a and 416 a may perform different functions inresponse to receiving the first electricity 450 a or the secondelectricity 452 a. For example, and as illustrated in FIG. 8, inresponse to the first electricity 450 a, the first electronic switch 414a may allow the first electricity 450 a to flow through the electronicswitch assembly 410 a and may not allow the first electricity 450 a toflow through the electronic chime 412. As well, in response to the firstelectricity 450 a, the second electronic switch 416 a does not allow thefirst electricity 450 a to flow through the electronic chime 412.Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 9, in response to the secondelectricity 452 a, the first and second electronic switches 414 a and416 a allow the second electricity 452 a to flow through the electronicchime 412.

As further illustrated in FIGS. 8-9, the first and second switches 414 aand 416 a may be configured to implement different operations based ontheir respective positions. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 8, whenthe first electronic switch 414 a is in a first position, the firstelectronic switch 414 a may electrically connect the transformer 424 andthe security system 202. Likewise, as illustrated in FIG. 9, when thefirst electronic switch 414 a is in a second position, the firstelectronic switch 414 a may electrically connect the transformer 424 andthe electronic chime 412.

In some embodiments, the locations of the first and second switches 414a and 416 a may be reversed, as such, when the first electronic switch414 a is in the second position, the first electronic switch 414 a mayelectrically connect the electronic chime 412 and the security system202. However, it should be appreciated that even in a reverseconfiguration, the first and second switches 414 a and 416 a mayeffectively achieve the same objective as that illustrated and describedwith respect to FIGS. 8 and 9.

With reference to FIG. 8, when the second electronic switch 416 a is inan open position, the second electronic switch 416 a may electricallydisconnect the security system 202 and the electronic chime 412. Whenthe second electronic switch 416 a is in the open position, the secondelectronic switch 416 a does not allow the first electricity 450 a toflow to the electronic chime 412. As shown in FIG. 9, when the secondelectronic switch 416 a is in a closed position, the second electronicswitch 416 a may electrically connect the security system 202 and theelectronic chime 412. In this position, the second electronic switch 416a may allow the first electricity 450 a to flow to the electronic chime412. As well, in some embodiments, when the second electronic switch 416a is in the open position, the second electronic switch 416 a mayelectrically disconnect the transformer 424 and the electronic chime412. Accordingly, when the second electronic switch 416 a is in theclosed position, the second electronic switch 416 a may electricallyconnect the transformer 424 and the electronic chime 412.

The position of the first and second switches 414 a and 416 a, may bedependent on the position of the other switch. For example, as shown inFIG. 8, when the first electronic switch 414 a is in the first position,the second electronic switch 416 a may be in the open position.Furthermore, as illustrated in FIG. 9, when the first electronic switch414 a is in the second position, the second electronic switch 416 a maybe in the closed position.

While some embodiments may implement two electronic switches, it shouldbe appreciated that any number of electronic switches less than orgreater than two may be implemented. For example, as illustrated inFIGS. 10-12, the electronic switch assembly 410 b may comprise a firstelectronic switch 414 b, a second electronic switch 416 b electricallyconnected to the first electronic switch 414 b, and a third electronicswitch 418 b electrically connected to the first and second electronicswitches 414 b and 416 b.

Similar to the two-switch embodiment, the first, second and thirdswitches 414 b, 416 b and 418 b may move to various positions inresponse to receiving the first electricity 450 b or the secondelectricity 452 b. For example, with reference to FIG. 11, in responseto the first electricity 450 b, the first electronic switch 414 b mayallow the first electricity 450 b to flow through the electronic switchassembly 410 b and may not allow the first electricity 450 b to flow tothe electronic chime 412. As well, the second and third electronicswitches 416 b and 418 b may not allow the first electricity 450 b toflow to the electronic chime 412. With reference to FIG. 12, in responseto the second electricity 452 b, the first electronic switch 414 b maynot allow the second electricity 452 b to flow through the electronicswitch assembly 410 b, and the second and third electronic switches 416b and 418 b may allow the second electricity 452 b to flow through theelectronic chime 412.

Similar to the two-switch example as illustrated in FIGS. 7-9, thefirst, second and third switches 414 b, 416 b and 418 b may beconfigured to implement different operations based on their respectivepositions. For example, as illustrated in FIG. 11, when the firstelectronic switch 414 b is in a closed position, the first electronicswitch 414 b electrically connects the transformer 424 and the securitysystem 202. Likewise, as illustrated in FIG. 12, when the firstelectronic switch 414 b is in an open position, the first electronicswitch 414 b electrically disconnects the transformer 424 and thesecurity system 202.

With continued reference to FIG. 12, when the second electronic switch416 b is in a closed position, the second electronic switch 416 belectrically connects the transformer 424 and the electronic chime 412.Now with reference to FIG. 11, when the second electronic switch 416 bis in an open position, the second electronic switch 416 b electricallydisconnects the transformer 424 and the electronic chime 412.

As illustrated in FIG. 12, when the third electronic switch 418 b is ina closed position, the third electronic switch 418 b electricallyconnects the security system 202 and the electronic chime 412.Furthermore, as shown in FIG. 11, when the third electronic switch 418 bis in an open position, the third electronic switch 418 b electricallydisconnects the security system 202 and the electronic chime 412.

As well, the position of the first, second and third switches 414 b, 416b and 418 b, may be dependent on the position of the other switch(es).For example, as shown in FIG. 11, when the first electronic switch 414 bis in the closed position, the second and third electronic switches 416b and 418 b may each be in the open position. Furthermore, asillustrated in FIG. 12, when the first electronic switch 414 b is in theopen position, the second and third electronic switches 416 b and 418 beach may be in the closed position.

It should be appreciated that the first electronic switch 414 a and thesecond electronic switch 416 a may comprise any electrical componentconfigured to route electricity or limit the amount of electricity flow,such as a resistor. For example, in some embodiments, such as thetwo-switch embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 7-9, the first electronicswitch 414 a may comprise a double pole, single throw switch, and thesecond electronic switch 416 a may comprise a single pole, single throwswitch. As well, in some embodiments, such as the three-switchembodiment, the first, second and third electronic switches 414 b, 416 band 418 b may each comprise a single pole, single throw switch.

The electronic switch assembly 410, or the printed circuit board, may bearranged and configured in various sizes and geometries. For example, asillustrated in FIG. 13, the electronic switch assembly 410 may comprisea base portion that defines a length that extends along a firstdirection and a width that extends along a second direction that isopposite the first direction. In some embodiments, the electronic switchassembly 410 may define a rectangular shape, wherein the length isgreater than the width. As well, in some embodiments the electronicswitch assembly 410 may further include three tabs 510 that may extendfrom the length along the second direction. As such, electronic switchassembly 410 embodiments viewed from the top down may appear to have afootprint of a capital “E.” However, it should be appreciated that theelectronic switch assembly 410 may be arranged and configured to defineany shape.

With continued reference to FIG. 13, each of the three tabs 510 mayinclude an aperture 512 that extends through each of the three tabs 510along a third direction that is opposite the first direction and thesecond direction. Each of the apertures 512 may be configured to receivea threaded fastener. In this manner, the electronic switch assembly 410may be mechanically coupled to the electronic chime 412 via threethreaded fasteners. In other words, each of the threaded fasteners mayextend through a respective aperture 512 and mechanically engage theelectronic chime 412 to mechanically couple the electronic switchassembly 410 to the electronic chime 412. It should be appreciated thatelectronic switch assembly 410 may include any number of apertures lessthan or greater than three and, accordingly, may be mechanicallyfastened to the electronic chime 412 via any number of mechanicalfasteners, such as threaded fasteners, or the like.

In some embodiments, the doorbell system comprises a housing and theelectronic chime 412 and the electronic switch assembly 410 are locatedinside the housing. As well, the security system 202 may be locatedoutside of the housing, in a remote location relative to the housing.For example the security system 202 may be located adjacent a doorway oran entry or point of a building, such as along an exterior wall adjacenta door. However, it should be appreciated that either or both thesecurity system 202 and the housing may be located inside or outside thebuilding. As well, in some embodiments, the housing is a plastichousing. However, it should be appreciated that the housing may compriseany type of material configured to safely house electronic componentsinside or outside a building.

As well, several embodiments further include a remote computing device204. The remote computing device can be configured to send and receiveinformation to and from the security system 202. In several embodiments,the information may include the first threshold. For example, the remotecomputing device 204 may be used to adjust the level of the firstthreshold. For example, if the user wishes to adjust the first thresholdfrom 12 volts to 14 volts, the user may do so by using the remotecomputing device 204. As well, the remote computing device 204 may beused to change the first threshold to voltage, current, power, or thelike. In this regard, the switch assembly 410 may include logiccircuitry so it can be programmed according to the information asestablished by the remote computing device 204.

As well, in several embodiments, the information may include apredetermined amount of time that the second electricity is maintainedabove the first threshold. In other words, the predetermined amount oftime may determine the amount of time the electronic chime 412 emits thenotification sound 430. For example, if the notification sound 430 is asong, the predetermined amount of time may determine the amount of timethat the song plays when a visitor has pressed the button of thesecurity system 202. It should be appreciated that the predeterminedamount of time may be any amount of time, such as 3 seconds, 5 seconds,10 seconds, 30 seconds, 60 seconds, or any other amount of time.

Doorbell Method Embodiments

Many embodiments utilize the doorbell system embodiments as previouslydescribed. For example, several embodiments include a method for using adoorbell system. The doorbell system may include an electronic doorbell,an electronic chime, and a remote computing device. As illustrated inFIG. 14, the method may include obtaining the electronic doorbell (orsecurity system 202) that comprises a camera and a button (at step 700).The button may be configurable to enable a visitor to sound anelectronic chime 412. The electronic chime 412 may include a speakerconfigurable to emit a notification sound 430 in response to the visitorpressing the button of the electronic doorbell 202. The method may alsoinclude electrically coupling an electronic switch assembly 410 to theelectronic chime 412 (at step 702). In several embodiments, the methodalso may include mechanically coupling the electronic switch assembly410 to the electronic chime 412.

Furthermore, the method may include electrically coupling the electronicdoorbell 202 to the electronic switch assembly 410 (at step 704). Aswell, some methods may include configuring the electronic switchassembly 410 so that a first electricity 450 that is less than a firstthreshold passes through the electronic switch assembly 410 withoutentering the electronic chime 412 (at step 706). In this manner, thefirst electricity 450 may not cause the electronic chime 412 to emit thenotification sound 430. As such, in response to the first electricitybeing less than the first threshold, the electronic switch assembly 410may block the first electricity 450 from passing through the electronicchime 412.

Some embodiments may further include configuring the electronic switchassembly 410 so that the electronic switch assembly 410 causes a secondelectricity 452 that is greater than the first threshold to pass throughthe electronic chime 412 (at step 708). In this manner, the secondelectricity 452 may cause the electronic chime 412 to emit thenotification sound 430. The electronic switch assembly 410 may beconfigured to allow the second electricity 452 to pass through theelectronic chime 412 in response to the second electricity 452 beinggreater than the first threshold. It should be appreciated that thefirst threshold may be an electricity value that is required by theelectronic chime 412 in order to emit the notification sound 430.

It should be appreciated that embodiments described in this disclosureare not limited to the first and second electricity 450 and 452. Forexample, several embodiments may further include a third and a fourthelectricity. Some embodiments include configuring an electrical circuit,such as the doorbell system 400, so that the third electricity passesfrom the transformer 424 to the security system 202, and to theelectronic switch assembly 410, and then to the transformer 424 withoutentering the electronic chime 412 in response to the third electricitybeing less than first threshold. As well, several embodiments includeconfiguring the electrical circuit so that a fourth electricity passesfrom the transformer 424 to the security system 202 and to theelectronic switch assembly 410 in response to the fourth electricitybeing greater than the first threshold. In this manner, the fourthelectricity may be diverted from the electronic switch assembly 410 intothe electronic chime 412, and then back into the electronic switchassembly 410. It should be appreciated that the security system 202 andthe electronic switch assembly 410 may be connected in series in theelectrical circuit. However, it should also be appreciated that thesecurity system 202 and the electronic switch assembly 410 may beconnected in parallel.

The electronic chime 412 may comprise any type of digital deviceconfigured to emit a notification sound 430 in response to the visitorpressing the button of the security system 202. For example, theelectronic chime 412 may be a digital chime having a first printedcircuit board. In several embodiments, the method may further includeconfiguring the first printed circuit board to enable the electronicchime 412 to emit the notification sound 430 from the speaker based ondigital music data.

In several embodiments, when the visitor presses the button of thesecurity system 202, the security system 202 may be configured to routeall electricity to the electronic chime 412 via the electronic switchassembly 410. To accomplish this, the security system 202 may furthercomprise a second printed circuit board. In some embodiments, the methodmay further include routing at least a portion of the first electricity450 through the second printed circuit board of the security system 202.In response to the visitor pressing the button, the method may furtherinclude blocking the second electricity 452 from entering the secondprinted circuit board of the security system. In order to cause theelectronic chime 412 to emit the notification sound 430, the method mayinclude causing the second electricity 452 to be greater than the firstthreshold in response to the visitor pressing the button of the securitysystem 202.

The doorbell system 400, via the electronic switch assembly 410, alsomay be configured to block the first electricity 450 from entering theelectronic chime 412 when the first electricity 450 is less than thefirst threshold. Specifically, in several embodiments, the method mayinclude using the electronic switch assembly 410 to block transformerelectrical power from entering the electronic chime 412 while the firstelectricity 450 is less than the first threshold. As well, the methodmay include using the electronic switch assembly 410 to divert thetransformer electrical power from the electronic switch assembly 410into the electronic chime 412 while the second electricity 452 isgreater than the first threshold.

It should be appreciated that the first threshold may be any type ofelectricity, such as power, voltage, and/or current. In this regard thefirst threshold may be described as a first electrical power threshold,a first electrical voltage threshold, and/or a first electrical currentthreshold.

The doorbell system 400 may also include the remote computing device204, which can be used to send and receive information to and/or fromthe security system 202. For example, the information may include apredetermined amount of time that defines the duration of time theelectronic chime 412 emits the notification sound 430. In this regard,some embodiments may further include setting the predetermined amount oftime via the remote computing device 204 prior to the second electricity452 exceeding the first threshold. As well, the method may includesending the predetermined amount of time wirelessly from the remotecomputing device 204 to the security system 202. And once the secondelectricity 452 is greater than the first threshold, the method mayfurther include maintaining the second electricity 452 above the firstthreshold for the predetermined amount of time.

In some embodiments, the doorbell system 400 comprises a housing, suchas a plastic housing. Accordingly, the method may further includeplacing the electronic chime 412 and the electronic switch assembly 410inside the plastic housing. As well, the method may include placing thesecurity system 202 outside the plastic housing and in a remote locationrelative to the plastic housing. Some methods may further includemounting the plastic housing along an interior surface of the buildingand mounting the security system 202 along an exterior surface of thebuilding near an entry point of the building. However, it should beappreciated that the plastic housing and/or the security system 202 maybe mounted anywhere along an interior or exterior surface of thebuilding.

As illustrated in FIG. 15, some embodiments disclose another method forusing the doorbell system 400. The method may include obtaining thesecurity system 202 (at step 800). The method may also includemechanically coupling a printed circuit board 410 to the electronicchime 412 and electrically coupling the printed circuit board 410 to theelectronic chime 412 (at step 802). As well, some methods includeelectrically coupling the security system 202 to the printed circuitboard 410 (at step 804).

Several embodiments may include configuring the printed circuit board410 so that the printed circuit board 410 allows a first electricity 450to pass through the printed circuit board 410 in response to the firstelectricity 450 being less than the first threshold (at step 806). Aswell, the method may include configuring the printed circuit board 410so that the printed circuit board 410 blocks the first electricity 450from entering the electronic chime 412 in response to the firstelectricity 450 being less than the first threshold (at step 808).Accordingly, the first electricity 450 does not cause the electronicchime 412 to emit the notification sound 430.

Several embodiments may further include configuring the printed circuitboard 410 so that the printed circuit board 410 causes a secondelectricity 452 that is greater than the first threshold to enter theelectronic chime 412 to cause the electronic chime to emit thenotification sound 430. As such, the printed circuit board 410 may causethe second electricity 452 to pass through the electronic chime 412 inresponse to the second electricity 452 being greater than the firstthreshold.

Furthermore, the printed circuit board 410 may be described as a firstprinted circuit board, and the security system 202 may comprise a secondprinted circuit board. Similar to the method illustrated in FIG. 14, themethod disclosed in FIG. 15 may further include routing at least aportion of the first electricity 450 through the second printed circuitboard of the security system 202. As well, this method may furtherinclude configuring the second printed circuit board to block the secondelectricity 452 from entering the second printed circuit board of thesecurity system 202 in response to the visitor pressing the button.Stated differently, these steps may allow all of the transformerelectrical power to be blocked from entering the security system 202 anddiverted to the electronic chime 412 so that the chime may have enoughelectrical power to emit the notification sound 430.

Several embodiments include yet another method for using the doorbellsystem 400. As illustrated in FIG. 16, the method includes obtaining thesecurity system 202 (at step 900). Similar to the methods illustrated inFIG. 14, many embodiments also include mechanically coupling the printedcircuit board 410 to the electronic chime 412 and electrically couplingthe printed circuit board 410 to the electronic chime 412 (at step 902).As well, several embodiments include electrically coupling the securitysystem 202 to the printed circuit board 410 (at step 904). Withcontinued reference to FIG. 15, in response to the second electricity452 being greater than the first threshold, many embodiments alsoinclude configuring the electronic switch assembly 410 so that theelectronic switch assembly 410 causes the second electricity 452 to passthrough the electronic chime 412 to cause the electronic chime 412 toemit the notification sound 430 (at step 906).

INTERPRETATION

None of the steps described herein is essential or indispensable. Any ofthe steps can be adjusted or modified. Other or additional steps can beused. Any portion of any of the steps, processes, structures, and/ordevices disclosed or illustrated in one embodiment, flowchart, orexample in this specification can be combined or used with or instead ofany other portion of any of the steps, processes, structures, and/ordevices disclosed or illustrated in a different embodiment, flowchart,or example. The embodiments and examples provided herein are notintended to be discrete and separate from each other.

The section headings and subheadings provided herein are nonlimiting.The section headings and subheadings do not represent or limit the fullscope of the embodiments described in the sections to which the headingsand subheadings pertain. For example, a section titled “Topic 1” mayinclude embodiments that do not pertain to Topic 1 and embodimentsdescribed in other sections may apply to and be combined withembodiments described within the “Topic 1” section.

Some of the devices, systems, embodiments, and processes use computers.Each of the routines, processes, methods, and algorithms described inthe preceding sections may be embodied in, and fully or partiallyautomated by, code modules executed by one or more computers, computerprocessors, or machines configured to execute computer instructions. Thecode modules may be stored on any type of non-transitorycomputer-readable storage medium or tangible computer storage device,such as hard drives, solid state memory, flash memory, optical disc,and/or the like. The processes and algorithms may be implementedpartially or wholly in application-specific circuitry. The results ofthe disclosed processes and process steps may be stored, persistently orotherwise, in any type of non-transitory computer storage such as, e.g.,volatile or non-volatile storage.

The various features and processes described above may be usedindependently of one another, or may be combined in various ways. Allpossible combinations and subcombinations are intended to fall withinthe scope of this disclosure. In addition, certain method, event, state,or process blocks may be omitted in some implementations. The methods,steps, and processes described herein are also not limited to anyparticular sequence, and the blocks, steps, or states relating theretocan be performed in other sequences that are appropriate. For example,described tasks or events may be performed in an order other than theorder specifically disclosed. Multiple steps may be combined in a singleblock or state. The example tasks or events may be performed in serial,in parallel, or in some other manner. Tasks or events may be added to orremoved from the disclosed example embodiments. The example systems andcomponents described herein may be configured differently thandescribed. For example, elements may be added to, removed from, orrearranged compared to the disclosed example embodiments.

Conditional language used herein, such as, among others, “can,” “could,”“might,” “may,” “e.g.,” and the like, unless specifically statedotherwise, or otherwise understood within the context as used, isgenerally intended to convey that certain embodiments include, whileother embodiments do not include, certain features, elements and/orsteps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended toimply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required forone or more embodiments or that one or more embodiments necessarilyinclude logic for deciding, with or without author input or prompting,whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to beperformed in any particular embodiment. The terms “comprising,”“including,” “having,” and the like are synonymous and are usedinclusively, in an open-ended fashion, and do not exclude additionalelements, features, acts, operations and so forth. Also, the term “or”is used in its inclusive sense (and not in its exclusive sense) so thatwhen used, for example, to connect a list of elements, the term “or”means one, some, or all of the elements in the list. Conjunctivelanguage such as the phrase “at least one of X, Y, and Z,” unlessspecifically stated otherwise, is otherwise understood with the contextas used in general to convey that an item, term, etc. may be either X,Y, or Z. Thus, such conjunctive language is not generally intended toimply that certain embodiments require at least one of X, at least oneof Y, and at least one of Z to each be present.

The term “and/or” means that “and” applies to some embodiments and “or”applies to some embodiments. Thus, A, B, and/or C can be replaced withA, B, and C written in one sentence and A, B, or C written in anothersentence. A, B, and/or C means that some embodiments can include A andB, some embodiments can include A and C, some embodiments can include Band C, some embodiments can only include A, some embodiments can includeonly B, some embodiments can include only C, and some embodiments caninclude A, B, and C. The term “and/or” is used to avoid unnecessaryredundancy.

While certain example embodiments have been described, these embodimentshave been presented by way of example only, and are not intended tolimit the scope of the inventions disclosed herein. Thus, nothing in theforegoing description is intended to imply that any particular feature,characteristic, step, module, or block is necessary or indispensable.Indeed, the novel methods and systems described herein may be embodiedin a variety of other forms; furthermore, various omissions,substitutions, and changes in the form of the methods and systemsdescribed herein may be made without departing from the spirit of theinventions disclosed herein.

What is claimed is:
 1. A doorbell system comprising: a doorbellcomprising a housing, a microphone, a speaker, a camera, a transmitter,and a button, the doorbell configured to operate in at least one of asleep mode, a standby mode, and an alert mode; a switch assemblyelectrically coupled to the doorbell and a power supply; and a chimeelectrically coupled in parallel with a first switch of the switchassembly.
 2. The doorbell system of claim 1, wherein the first switchcomprises a single-pole, single-throw switch.
 3. The doorbell system ofclaim 2, wherein when the first switch is in a closed position, thefirst switch electrically couples the power supply and the doorbell. 4.The doorbell system of claim 2, wherein the doorbell is configured toexit the sleep mode and enter the standby mode in response to a firstindication, and wherein the doorbell is configured to exit the standbymode and enter the alert mode in response to a second indication.
 5. Thedoorbell system of claim 4, wherein the first indication comprises asound.
 6. The doorbell system of claim 4, wherein the second indicationcomprises a button press.
 7. The doorbell system of claim 1, wherein thebutton of the doorbell is configurable to enable a visitor to sound thechime, the camera of the doorbell is configurable to take a picture ofthe visitor, and the first switch is configured to have a first stateand a second state, wherein the first state occurs in response to afirst electricity that is less than a first threshold, and the secondstate occurs in response to a second electricity that is greater thanthe first threshold, wherein in the first state the first switch isconfigured prevent at least a portion of the first electricity frompassing through the chime to prevent the chime from emitting anotification sound, and in the second state the switch assembly isconfigured to allow the second electricity to pass through the chimesuch that the chime emits the notification sound.
 8. The doorbell systemof claim 7, wherein in the first state the first switch is in a closedposition such that a first electrical current flows through the firstswitch between the doorbell and the power supply such that the chimedoes not emit the notification sound during the first state, and whereinin the second state the first switch is in an open position such thatthe first switch blocks a second electrical current from flowing throughthe first switch between the doorbell and the power supply.
 9. Thedoorbell system of claim 8, wherein when the doorbell is in the standbymode the first switch is in the first state, and when the doorbell is inthe alert mode the first switch is in the second state.
 10. The doorbellsystem of claim 9, wherein the doorbell is configured such that pressingthe button of the doorbell causes the second electricity to be greaterthan the first threshold to cause the second state, and causes thedoorbell to enter the alert mode.
 11. The doorbell system of claim 1,wherein in response to a first electricity that is less than a firstthreshold the first switch is configured to allow at least a portion ofthe first electricity to flow through the switch assembly and thedoorbell is configured to enter the standby mode, and in response to asecond electricity that is greater than the first threshold, thedoorbell is configured to exit the standby mode and enter the alertmode, and the first switch is configured to not allow the secondelectricity to flow through the switch assembly and is configured toenable the second electricity to flow through the chime, wherein thefirst switch is configured to have a first state and a second state,wherein the first state occurs in response to the first electricity thatis less than the first threshold, and the second state occurs inresponse to the second electricity that is greater than the firstthreshold, wherein in the first state the first switch is configuredprevent at least a portion of the first electricity from passing throughthe chime to prevent the chime from emitting a notification sound, andin the second state the switch assembly is configured to allow thesecond electricity to pass through the chime such that the chime emitsthe notification sound.
 12. A method of using a doorbell system, whereinthe doorbell system comprises a doorbell comprising a housing, amicrophone, a speaker, a camera, a transmitter, and a button, thedoorbell configured to operate in at least one of a sleep mode, astandby mode, and an alert mode, a switch assembly electrically coupledto the doorbell and a power supply, and a chime electrically coupled inparallel with a first switch of the switch assembly, the methodcomprising: in response to a first electricity that is less than a firstthreshold, allowing, by the first switch, at least a portion of thefirst electricity to flow through the switch assembly, wherein thedoorbell is configured to exit the sleep mode and enter the standbymode, and in response to a second electricity that is greater than thefirst threshold, not allowing, by the first switch, the secondelectricity to flow through the switch assembly and enabling the secondelectricity to flow through the chime, wherein the doorbell isconfigured to exit the standby mode and enter the alert mode.
 13. Themethod of claim 12, further comprising sending, by the doorbell systemand in response to the doorbell entering the alert mode, a communicationrequest to a remote computing device communicatively coupled to thedoorbell.
 14. The method of claim 13, further comprising taking, by thecamera of the doorbell, a picture of a visitor.
 15. The method of claim14, further comprising sending the picture to the remote computingdevice.
 16. The method of claim 12, wherein the doorbell is configuredsuch that detecting a sound, by the microphone of the doorbell, causesthe first electricity to be less than the first threshold, and causesthe doorbell to enter the standby mode.
 17. The method of claim 16,wherein the camera of the doorbell is configured to take a picture of avisitor upon the doorbell entering the standby mode.
 18. The method ofclaim 12, wherein the doorbell is configured such that detecting a pressof the button of the doorbell causes the second electricity to begreater than the first threshold, and causes the doorbell to enter thealert mode.
 19. The doorbell system of claim 12, wherein the doorbellsystem is configured to maintain the second electricity above the firstthreshold for a predetermined amount of time in response to a press ofthe button.
 20. The method of claim 12, wherein when the doorbell isoperating in the sleep mode, at least one of the microphone, thespeaker, the camera, and the transmitter is configured to use less powerthan when the doorbell is operating in at least one of the standby modeand the alert mode.